2009-11-23

¡Viva Vaquita! – Launch Of A New Website To Help Conserve The Vaquita

Despite on-going efforts from a variety of individuals and organisations (including WDCS) and the Mexican Government, the vaquita, the smallest and most endangered of all marine mammals is on the brink of extinction. This species has the most limited distribution of all cetaceans, found only in the northern end of the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), within a 48km radius. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) classify the species as “Critically Endangered” and only an estimated 125 – 150 vaquita remain.

The reason for their decline is the unsustainable number of animals dying in gill-nets set for both fish and shrimp. More animals are dying than are being born into the population and in only a few years the vaquita could join the baiji as being declared extinct due to the actions of man.

To raise awareness of the plight of the vaquita, concerned researchers and organisations have launched a new website www.vivavaquita.org - described as a “one-stop shop” where you can find out more about how you can help!

Read more about WDCSs vaquita work.